The World’s Largest Airport is Coming to Istanbul in 2018

Large international airports can be daunting places. With the hustle and bustle of countless passengers, well-organized and thoughtfully designed terminals are important. This is especially true with an upcoming airport that's located on the Black Sea near Istanbul, Turkey. It's being called Istanbul New Airport, and it is on track to be the largest in the world, with a floor area that's close to one million square meters. A trio of international architectural practices were appointed to design this massive undertaking, and they include Grimshaw Architects, Haptic Architects, and Nordic Office of Architecture.

A project this large isn't debuted all at once. The masterplan was designed by multi-disciplinary firm ARUP and involves the construction of six runways to be delivered in four parts. Its first phase will open in 2018 and aims to serve 90 million annual passengers. Once the final stage of the project is complete, this number will increase to 150 million travelers.

The design includes an expansive central plaza and traffic forecourt to serve as a central hub for rail, metro, bus, and car transportation. Its structure will feature vaulted ceilings that enhance wayfinding throughout the terminals, with a canopy that diffuses natural light through strategically-positioned skylights. This illuminates vital areas like check-in, security, passport control, and retail outlets.

The ever-changing hues and tones of Istanbul are inspiration for the interior spaces, which will play with light and a subtle range of blues to create geometric patterns. Doing this will establish an identifiable sense of place that helps passengers make a smooth transition to their next destination.

As technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, it’s found a place in nearly everyone’s life. If you’re looking for the perfect gift this holiday, digital devices and great gadgets are the place to start. From the world traveler to the health conscious to the kid at heart, we’ve found products that utilize modern technology in exciting ways.

Earlier this year, we marveled at Aelia Petro‘s mystical dragon jewelry that wraps around your neck as if you were Daenerys Targaryen. Since delighting us with those fantastical accessories, Petro has continued to craft the creatures. Now, they’re ready for the holidays as dragon ornaments that cling to baubles and bulbs. Not only are they ready to celebrate with you, but they’re on a mission, too.